There may be a time when your cat will require a procedure or surgery for their continued health. At the time of surgery your cat will require anesthesia which will be carefully administered and monitored by our veterinary staff. Knowing the basics about how anesthesia will be used in cat surgery and the recovery basics will help to ease your mind while your kitty is under our care.

Anesthesia may be deemed necessary when a procedure needs to be performed where the cat will be immobilized or if the procedure would otherwise cause pain or distress that is beyond what the cat can comfortably tolerate. We want you to feel absolutely comfortable with our hospital, staff, and recommendations and anytime sedation is being recommended, we want to reassure you that our veterinary staff is here to answer any questions and provide any assistance that will make the procedure easier for you and your cat.

Because cats have specific needs, it is important to make sure that veterinary anesthesia protocols are followed properly to prepare your cat for surgery. We make it our priority to ensure that your cat is in optimal health before any  surgery is performed. Therefore, our veterinarian will always recommend some diagnostic testing before the procedure to ensure that we have a complete picture of your cat’s physical health.

Why Would Your Cat Need Anesthesia

Anesthesia is used for any type of surgery where the cat needs to be immobilized or during any type of procedure where the cat would otherwise feel pain. Sedation allows us keep your cat perfectly still and pain free during the surgery. During anesthesia, your cat will be in an unconscious state and will not feel any discomfort.

Risks Associated With Giving Cats Anesthesia

There are always risks that come with any surgery, but the risks are very low thanks to the experienced veterinary team here at The Drake Center.  Our veterinary staff ensures that risks are minimized by performing careful and consistent monitoring throughout the entire time feline patients are under anesthesia.

What To Expect The Day Your Cat Receives Veterinary Anesthesia

You will receive a specific set of instructions from your veterinarian before your cat receives anesthesia or undergoes any surgical procedure. We will discuss with you any risks of veterinary anesthesia. Here are some things to keep in mind as you arrive with your cat for the surgery:

  • Fasting is necessary the night before any sedation is administered
  • Follow any specific directions given to you by your veterinarian
  • Depending on the type of procedure and your cat’s condition, our veterinarian may recommend additional prescription pain medications while your cat recovers
  • Ask any questions you may have and our veterinary staff will provide answers and help to ease your mind before or after the surgery is performed
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Monitoring Anesthetized Cats

The veterinary surgical team will monitor your cat very carefully while surgery is performed and throughout the time that they are under the influence of anesthesia. When your cat is under anesthesia, our veterinary staff will:

  • Monitor your cat’s heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and carbon dioxide output levels
  • Keep an IV catheter in place to provide fluid support should there be any fluctuations in blood pressure
  • Make sure your cat is breathing well and resting comfortably

*The risks of cat anesthesia are very low with proper monitoring.

What To Expect As Cats Come Out Of Anesthesia

The veterinary team at The Drake Center will continue to monitor your cat’s vital signs, heart rate, and blood pressure as they come out of surgery, awakens from any sedatives used, and until your cat is ready to return home. Your cat may feel sedated for a period of time after it goes home. Our staff will talk to you about your cat’s pain management plan. Your cat may need pain medication for several days and you will receive specific instructions before your cat is released. If you should have any questions or concerns, please call The Drake Center right away. Some cats may not regain their appetite until they next day. Always follow all instructions given to you by your veterinary team to ensure your cat’s full recovery.